# Breaking Defense: HD Hyundai, Kiewit plan shipyard for Navy auxiliaries and commercial vessels Breaking Defense reports the proposed venture would build vessels and supply other shipbuilders, with construction planned for 2027 and full operations expected in 2029. Published 2026-10-23 by TGOs. Canonical: https://tgos.io/news/2026/10/23/breaking-defense-hd-hyundai-kiewit-plan-shipyard-for-navy/ HD Hyundai and Kiewit Maritime Co. unveiled plans for a new US shipyard aimed at Navy auxiliary and commercial vessels, Breaking Defense reported.[1] The proposed joint venture is called HD Kiewit Shipbuilding LLC.[1] The yard would also be designed to produce ship blocks and modules for the wider US shipbuilding industry, giving the proposal a role in supplying other builders.[1] The companies plan to start construction in 2027 at an existing industrial site and expect full operations in 2029.[1] Their announcement describes deep water and unrestricted access to the Gulf.[1] The yard aims to support up to 3,000 full-time jobs.[1] Breaking Defense's report gives no investment figure, specific site, Navy contract or approval status for the venture.[1] ## Why it matters The companies intend to use digital twins, automated production systems and robotic welding to improve productivity, quality and safety, according to release language quoted by Breaking Defense.[1] ## Sources 1. Breaking Defense: HD Hyundai, Kiewit unveil plans for new US shipyard